You know that feeling. You’re miles from the trailhead, the sun is starting to dip, and your rig starts to sputter. It’s a moment every off-roader dreads, and it’s often preventable. Your 2015 Can Am Commander 800 is a beast of a machine, a true workhorse built for adventure, but even the toughest UTVs need consistent, proper care to stay reliable.
We get it. You’d rather be riding than wrenching. That’s why we’ve put together the definitive, no-fluff guide to keeping your Commander 800 in peak condition. We promise this article will give you the confidence and know-how to handle essential maintenance and troubleshoot issues like a pro.
In this guide, you’ll discover the simple pre-ride checks that prevent major failures, a step-by-step maintenance schedule for crucial components, a breakdown of the most common problems and their fixes, and some smart, practical tips to get the most out of your machine for years to come.
Why the 2015 Can Am Commander 800 is Still a Trail King
Years after its release, this machine remains a favorite for good reason. The benefits of the 2015 Can Am Commander 800 lie in its perfect balance of utility and sport performance. It’s not just a machine; it’s a platform for adventure.
Powered by a robust 71-hp Rotax 800R V-twin engine, it delivers ample torque for hauling gear or climbing steep grades. The dual-level cargo box is a standout feature, offering versatile storage that few competitors can match. It’s this blend of power, practicality, and a comfortable cockpit that makes it a formidable presence on any trail.
Properly maintained, this UTV is a long-term partner for work and play. Following a solid 2015 can am commander 800 care guide ensures you enjoy these benefits without the constant worry of breakdowns.
Your Pre-Ride Ritual: The 5-Minute Check That Saves Hours of Headaches
Before you even turn the key, get in the habit of a quick walk-around. These simple 2015 can am commander 800 best practices can be the difference between a great day of riding and a long walk home. We call it the T-CLOCS method, adapted for UTVs.
- T – Tires & Wheels: Check tire pressure—don’t just eyeball it. Look for any cuts, punctures, or embedded objects. Grab each wheel and check for excessive play, which could indicate a bad wheel bearing or ball joint.
- C – Controls & Cables: Test your throttle for smooth operation. Check the brake pedal feel—it should be firm, not spongy. Ensure your steering is responsive and doesn’t have excessive slop.
- L – Lights & Electrics: Turn the key and test your headlights (high and low beams), taillights, and brake lights. A flickering light could be a sign of a loose connection.
- O – Oil & Fluids: This is non-negotiable. Check your engine oil level and color. Peek at the coolant reservoir to ensure it’s between the ‘Min’ and ‘Max’ lines. Give the brake fluid reservoir a quick look, too.
- C – Chassis & Suspension: Glance over the frame for any obvious cracks or damage. Look at your A-arms, trailing arms, and shocks for any signs of leaks or bent components.
- S – Stand & Stuff: Make sure any gear in the cargo bed is secured. If you have a winch, check that the hook is properly seated.
The Essential 2015 Can Am Commander 800 Care Guide: Fluids, Filters, and Belts
Preventative maintenance is the core of this 2015 can am commander 800 guide. Sticking to a schedule will dramatically increase the life of your machine and save you a fortune in repair bills. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific intervals, but here are the big ones.
Engine Oil & Filter Change
Clean oil is the lifeblood of your Rotax engine. Don’t cheap out or stretch the intervals.
- Warm It Up: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil, which helps it drain completely.
- Drain It: Place a drain pan under the engine. Remove the drain plug (it’s on the bottom of the engine, near the front) and let the oil drain fully. Pro Tip: Loosen the oil fill cap to help it drain faster.
- Change the Filter: The oil filter is located on the right side of the engine. Use an oil filter wrench to remove the old one. Dab a bit of new oil on the gasket of the new filter and spin it on until it’s hand-tight, then give it another quarter-turn with the wrench.
- Refill & Check: Reinstall the drain plug (don’t overtighten!). Refill with the correct amount of XPS 5W-40 Synthetic Blend oil. Start the engine, let it run for 30 seconds, shut it off, and re-check the level, topping off as needed.
Air Filter Service
Your Commander breathes through its air filter. A clogged filter robs power and can let damaging dust into your engine. Check it after every dusty ride.
To access it, you’ll typically remove the passenger seat and a cover panel. If you have a foam filter, wash it with filter cleaner and water, let it dry completely, and then re-oil it with foam filter oil. If it’s a paper filter, tap out the loose dust. If it’s heavily soiled, replace it. Never use compressed air to clean a paper filter, as it can create microscopic holes.
CVT Drive Belt Inspection
The drive belt is a critical wear item. A failure on the trail is a major hassle. Here’s how to do a quick inspection.
Remove the plastic CVT cover on the left side of the engine. Look at the belt for any signs of glazing (shiny spots), cracking, fraying, or missing cogs. If you see any of these, it’s time for a replacement. Even if it looks good, it’s smart to carry a spare belt and the tools to change it on every ride.
Troubleshooting Common Problems with the 2015 Can Am Commander 800
Even with perfect maintenance, things can go wrong. Here are some of the most common problems with the 2015 Can Am Commander 800 and how to approach them.
Problem: Engine Won’t Crank or Start
You turn the key and get a click, or nothing at all. Don’t panic. Start with the simple stuff.
- Battery: Is it charged? Are the terminals clean and tight? Corrosion is a common culprit. Use a wire brush and terminal protector spray.
- Brake Switch: The Commander requires you to press the brake pedal to start. The brake pressure switch can fail. Check if your brake lights are working when you press the pedal. If not, this switch is a likely suspect.
- Fuses: Check the main fuses in the fuse box, usually located under the hood.
- Starter Solenoid: If you hear a single, loud click when you turn the key, the solenoid might be the issue. You can try tapping it lightly with the handle of a screwdriver. If it starts, you know you need a new one.
Problem: Engine is Overheating
The temp light is on, or you see steam. Shut it down immediately to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Let it cool completely before doing anything else. Never open a hot radiator cap.
- Check the Radiator: The most common cause is a radiator caked in mud. Hose it out thoroughly from the back side, pushing the mud out the way it came in.
- Check Coolant Level: Once cool, check the level in the overflow bottle and the radiator itself. If it’s low, you may have a leak. Top it off with a 50/50 coolant/distilled water mix.
- Check the Fan: Start the machine and let it idle. The radiator fan should kick on as it approaches operating temperature. If it doesn’t, you could have a bad fan motor, relay, or fuse.
Problem: Drivetrain Noises (Clunks, Whines, or Grinds)
Unusual noises are your machine’s way of asking for help. Try to isolate the source.
- Clunking on Acceleration/Deceleration: This often points to worn U-joints in your driveshafts or worn A-arm bushings.
- Whining or Grinding from Differentials: This suggests low or contaminated fluid. Check the fluid levels in the front and rear diffs and the gearbox. If the oil looks milky or has metal shavings, drain and refill it immediately.
- Clicking When Turning: A rhythmic clicking that gets faster as you accelerate into a turn is the classic sign of a failing CV joint on an axle.
Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Best Practices for Your Commander
Being a responsible rider means protecting the trails we love. Incorporating sustainable 2015 can am commander 800 practices into your routine is easy and makes a huge difference.
When changing fluids, always use a drain pan and never let oil or coolant spill onto the ground. Most auto parts stores accept used oil for recycling free of charge. An eco-friendly 2015 can am commander 800 is one that isn’t leaking fluids onto the trail.
When washing your rig, try to do it on a grassy area away from storm drains or waterways, or use a commercial car wash with a proper water reclamation system. This prevents mud, oil, and grime from polluting local water sources. Lastly, a well-tuned engine with a clean air filter burns fuel more efficiently, reducing emissions and your overall environmental footprint.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2015 Can Am Commander 800
What kind of fuel should I use in my 2015 Commander 800?
Your Commander 800 is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87. Avoid using E85 or fuel with more than 10% ethanol, as it can damage the fuel system over time.
What is the top speed of a 2015 Can Am Commander 800?
Stock, a 2015 Commander 800 can typically reach speeds of around 65-70 mph. However, top speed can be affected by tire size, clutch condition, and overall machine weight.
How often should I change the differential and gearbox fluids?
A good rule of thumb is to check the fluids every 50 hours and change them at least once a year or every 100 hours of operation. If you frequently ride in deep water or mud, you should change them much more often, as water contamination is a major risk.
Can I put larger tires on my Commander 800?
Yes, but it’s a trade-off. Larger tires provide better ground clearance and traction but can add stress to your axles, wheel bearings, and clutch. If you go more than an inch or two larger than stock, you should strongly consider a clutch kit to recalibrate your CVT for the larger diameter and prevent premature belt wear.
Armed with these 2015 can am commander 800 tips, you’re ready to take control of your machine’s health. Taking an hour or two for maintenance now will reward you with countless hours of trouble-free riding later. So grab your tools, get to know your rig, and hit the trails with confidence.
Stay safe, ride smart, and we’ll see you out there!
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